How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Alaska - AK

The steps to become a dental hygienist in Alaska are fairly straightforward. A dental hygienist in the state of Alaska must obtain a license and certificate of registration from the Alaska's Board of Dental Examiners to practice dental hygiene. The applicant must have graduated from a two-year school that has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Dental and Dental Auxiliary Education Programs of the American Dental Association. In addition, one must have passed a theory examination usually administered by the American Dental Association Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. Also, one must have passed a clinical exam usually administered by the Western Regional Examining Board (WREB).

It is at this time that the applicant has earned the Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) credential. The applicant must provide proof of CPR certification. On the other hand, one may apply for a license by credentials, in which a complete listing of criteria is available from the Alaska's Board of Dental Examiners. The appropriate fees must be paid, along with a fully completed application, and corresponding transcripts before a license and certificate of registration is administered. A dental hygienist in Alaska may also administer local anesthetic and nitrous oxide with a separate certificate. This requires a separate examination, application, and fee. www.commerce.state.ak.us/occ/pub/DentalStatutes.pdf, www.danb.org/PDFs/CODA.pdf